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09.12.09, 16:51
What is Home Access?
Home Access is the government programme which will help to ensure that more
children in state-maintained education
in England have access to technology at home to support learning. The
programme was developed out of the recognition
that there are still a significant number of learners who lack access to a
computer and the internet at home. Additional
support for learners with assistive technology needs will be provided so that
all children are able to benefit from the
programme.
Following on from a successful pilot of the programme in Oldham and Suffolk
local authorities, Home Access will be rolled
out across England from December 2009. The programme aims to provide funding
to over 270,000 households by March
2011. Please see www.becta.org.uk/homeaccess for more information.
Eligibility
Who is eligible for a Home Access Grant?
Those eligible are families with children in years 3 to 9 who attend state
maintained school in England on a full time basis
and did not receive a computer from the ‘Computers for Pupils’ or the ‘Home
Access’ programme in the past. Of these
families, the second criterion is that the family fits one of the following:
• the child is eligible for free school meals,
• parent(s)
- on income support
- receives income-based job seekers allowance
- receives the Child Tax Credit and has an income of less than £16,040
- have guaranteed pension credit
- have an income related employment support allowance
- receive support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act.
Families will also have to submit their child benefit award statement along
with their application. They may also be
required to provide some additional evidence to prove receipt of the above
benefits. This will be detailed on the
application form.
Packages / suppliers
What kind of equipment and connectivity packages will be on offer?
Becta has set the minimum requirements for Home Access packages. Packages
comprise a computer, internet connection
and support; requirements were gathered in consultation with industry and
schools. The specifications are available at:
industry.becta.org.uk/display.cfm?resID=40449&page=1629&catID=1885
